Best LPN Programs in Maine 2026
Explore Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs in Maine with details on schools, classes, tuition, and clinical training. Review state licensing requirements and the career outlook for practical nurses across Maine.
2026 Best LPN Programs in Maine
Maine College of Health Professions
Lewiston, ME - Private 4-year - mchp.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Maine College of Health Professions in Lewiston offers a one-year Practical Nursing certificate program spanning three semesters. This campus-based program emphasizes hands-on learning to prepare students for diverse healthcare environments. It maintains a perfect 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate and job placement record for graduates. With total costs under $18,000 and financial aid eligibility, it provides an affordable pathway into nursing. The program is accredited by ACEN and achieves a 71% completion rate, ensuring quality education and strong career readiness without requiring entrance exams.
- One year certificate program
- 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Cost under $18,000
- Financial aid eligible
- 3 semesters program length
- Hands-on learning experience
- Accredited by ACEN
- Located in Lewiston, ME
- 71% completion rate
Beal University
Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - beal.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Online Learning - Visit Website
Beal University's Practical Nursing Diploma Program offers a fast-track 10-month pathway to LPN licensure, available both online and on-campus in Bangor. This intensive program emphasizes patient-centered care across diverse healthcare environments, with curriculum covering Pharmacology, Human Anatomy, and Lifespan Considerations. Students benefit from small class sizes and flexible scheduling options while preparing for the NCLEX-PN examination. The program's comprehensive approach ensures graduates develop essential clinical skills for immediate entry into nursing practice, making it an efficient choice for those seeking to quickly enter Maine's healthcare workforce.
- 10-month diploma program
- Online and on-campus options
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure
- Small class sizes
- Flexible schedules
- Courses in Pharmacology
- Lifespan Considerations course
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Patient-centered care focus
- Career in various healthcare settings
Northern Maine Community College
Presque Isle, ME - Public 2-Year - nmcc.edu
Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Maine Community College's 9-month Practical Nursing certificate program delivers an accelerated pathway into healthcare, featuring advanced simulation centers for hands-on training. Students gain critical nursing skills across patient lifespans through clinical experiences in diverse settings, preparing them for the NCLEX-PN exam. This affordable program often results in debt-free graduation and serves as a strategic stepping stone for advancing to RN roles, with high job market demand for graduates.
- 9-month certification program
- Advanced nursing simulation center
- Hands-on clinical training
- Career pathway to RN
- High job market demand
Maine LPN Program Overview
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
To qualify for admission to an LPN program in Maine, applicants typically need to hold a high school diploma or GED. Additional prerequisites may include completion of coursework in biology and mathematics, a minimum GPA requirement, and successful completion of a placement test such as the ACCUPLACER. Some programs also require applicants to pass a criminal background check and provide proof of immunization. CPR certification and physical health clearance are commonly required prior to beginning clinical rotations.
Program Curriculum and Accreditation
LPN programs in Maine cover the foundational knowledge and hands-on clinical skills needed for entry-level nursing positions. The curriculum usually includes courses in anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, nursing fundamentals, and medical-surgical nursing. Clinical practice is integrated throughout the program to provide real-world patient care experiences in local healthcare settings.
Accreditation is essential for ensuring that an LPN program meets national educational standards. Programs approved by the Maine State Board of Nursing are recognized for producing graduates eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN licensure exam and to secure employment in licensed facilities across the state. Additionally, some programs may hold accreditation from organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), which signifies adherence to high educational quality standards.
LPN Schools and Classes
In Maine, LPN programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and adult education centers. These programs provide both classroom and clinical instruction, preparing students for roles in patient care. Coursework typically includes human anatomy, nursing procedures, pharmacology, maternal and child health, and geriatrics. Students also gain experience in lab simulations and clinical training across various health care settings including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.
Career Outlook
Licensed Practical Nurses in Maine are in steady demand, especially in long-term care and home health settings. Graduates can work under the supervision of Registered Nurses and physicians in hospitals, assisted living facilities, and private homes. LPNs in Maine often enjoy stable employment with opportunities for flexible scheduling including evenings, weekends, and part-time shifts. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of LPNs is projected to grow, making it a viable career path in Maine’s healthcare environment.
LPN Program Length
Full-time LPN programs in Maine typically take 11 to 12 months to complete. Part-time programs are often designed for working adults, extending over 18 to 24 months. Some schools also offer evening and weekend programs to meet the needs of non-traditional students. These options allow for flexible scheduling while maintaining the necessary education and clinical hours required by the Maine State Board of Nursing.
2026 Shortest LPN Programs in Maine
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| Maine College of Health Professions |
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| Beal University |
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| Northern Maine Community College |
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Tuition and Costs
In Maine, tuition for LPN programs ranges from approximately $4,500 to $6,500, depending on the institution and length of the program. Costs may include uniforms, textbooks, lab fees, NCLEX exam fees, and background checks. Housing expenses vary by region, with student accommodations and off-campus housing in urban areas costing more than in rural locations. Additional costs may also include transportation to clinical sites and health insurance.
2026 Low-Cost LPN Programs in Maine
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Maine College of Health Professions |
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| Northern Maine Community College |
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| Beal University |
| - |
Can I Take LPN Classes Online?
LPN programs in Maine cannot be completed entirely online due to the mandatory hands-on clinical training required for licensure. While some theoretical coursework may be available in a hybrid format, clinical rotations must be completed in person at approved healthcare facilities. The Maine State Board of Nursing requires direct, supervised patient care experiences to meet state standards for licensing and professional readiness.
LPN Licensure Requirements in Maine
NCLEX-PN Exam Information
To become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maine, graduates of a state-approved practical nursing program must successfully pass the NCLEX-PN examination. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and evaluates the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and effective entry-level nursing practice. Candidates must first apply to the Maine State Board of Nursing for licensure eligibility before registering for the exam. Once approved, applicants may schedule their exam through the Pearson VUE website. Official results are typically sent to the Board within 4-6 weeks of testing.
LPN Reciprocity and Nurse Licensure Compact
The state of Maine is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing LPNs in Maine to practice in other NLC member states without obtaining additional licenses. This benefits nurses who hold a multistate license and seek employment opportunities across state lines. For LPNs licensed in non-compact states, Maine offers licensure by endorsement. To be considered, applicants must provide proof of a current and active LPN license in good standing from another U.S. state, submit to a criminal background check, and meet Maine’s licensing standards.
Licensure Requirements
The Maine State Board of Nursing governs the licensing process for LPNs. To qualify for initial licensure, applicants must complete an approved practical nursing program, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, submit official transcripts, and provide fingerprint-based criminal background check results. Maine does not currently require additional coursework before initial licensure beyond graduation from a Board-approved program. Foreign-educated applicants must have their credentials evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
License Renewal
LPN licenses in Maine must be renewed every two years. Renewal applications can be submitted online through the Board of Nursing’s license management system. While Maine does not mandate continuing education (CE) for LPN renewal, maintaining competence in practice is expected. LPNs are required to complete a criminal background check once every six years. It is recommended that licensees begin the renewal process well before their license expiration date to ensure uninterrupted practice authority.
Maine LPN Salary Compared to National Average Salary For LPN/LVNs
The average salary for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Maine is $72,600, which is significantly higher than the national average of $62,340. This wage premium is likely influenced by several state-specific factors, including a high demand for long-term care services driven by Maine's status as one of the states with the oldest populations. This demographic trend, combined with the state's cost of living and regional healthcare needs, puts upward pressure on LPN compensation. As a result, wages for LPNs in Maine are more competitive than in many other parts of the country.
Average LPN National Salary
$62,340 per year
2024 Median Pay reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Maine LPN Certificate/Diploma vs. Associate Degree
LPN Diploma/Certificate
Program Length:
Typically 9-12 months.
Credential Awarded:
Certificate or Diploma in Practical Nursing.
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
Yes. This is the primary goal of the program.
Program Focus:
Concentrated on core clinical skills, basic nursing care, and direct patient interaction to prepare for immediate entry-level practice.
Average In-State Tuition in Maine:
Approximately $8,000 - $15,000 for the entire program (tuition and fees).
Best For:
Individuals seeking the fastest and most direct route to enter the nursing workforce as a licensed practical nurse.
School Types:
Community colleges and career and technical education (CTE) centers.
LPN Associate Degree
Program Length:
Typically 2 years (24 months).
Credential Awarded:
Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS).
NCLEX-PN Eligibility:
No. These programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN (Registered Nurse) exam.
Program Focus:
A broader scope than LPN programs, including more in-depth theory, leadership, critical thinking, and complex patient management skills required for the RN role.
Average In-State Tuition in Maine:
Approximately $8,000 - $12,000 total for tuition and mandatory fees over two years.
Best For:
Students who intend to become a Registered Nurse (RN) from the start, or current LPNs seeking a bridge program to advance their career.
School Types:
Primarily community colleges.
Choose Diploma/Certificate If:
- Faster Entry into the Workforce: You can complete the program and start working as a nurse in about one year.
- Lower Overall Cost: The total tuition for a certificate program is significantly less than a two-year degree, reducing student debt.
- Focused Training: The curriculum is concentrated entirely on the essential, hands-on skills needed for the LPN role, with fewer general education requirements.
- Excellent Stepping Stone: It allows you to enter the nursing field, gain valuable experience, and earn an income while deciding on and potentially having an employer help pay for future RN education.
Choose Associate Degree If:
- Direct Path to RN Licensure: This is the primary pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse, which offers a wider scope of practice and greater responsibilities.
- Higher Earning Potential: Registered Nurses typically earn a significantly higher salary than LPNs.
- Greater Career Opportunities: Many hospitals and healthcare facilities prefer or exclusively hire RNs for a wider variety of roles, including supervisory positions.
- Smoother Educational Advancement: An associate degree provides a solid academic foundation and transferable credits, making it easier to later pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
📚 LPN vs Other Entry Level Healthcare Careers in Maine
| Career | Salary | Program Length | Exam | Clinical Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LPN | $56,420 - $68,360 | 9-12 months | NCLEX-PN | 500-700 hours | $12,000 - $25,000 |
| MA | $38,060 - $47,690 | 9-12 months | CMA (AAMA) or RMA (AMT) | 160-220 hours | $8,000 - $17,000 |
| CNA | $37,290 - $45,860 | 4-12 weeks | Maine CNA Competency Exam | 70+ hours | $900 - $2,500 |
| DA | $46,550 - $58,340 | 9-11 months | DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Exam for radiography license | 300-450 hours | $10,000 - $20,000 |
| Pharm Tech | $37,340 - $46,670 | 4-9 months | PTCB (CPhT) or NHA (ExCPT) | 120-300 hours | $3,000 - $11,000 |
| Phlebotomist | $38,150 - $46,860 | 2-4 months | PBT (ASCP) or CPT (NHA) | 40-120 hours | $1,000 - $3,500 |
| OTA | $59,180 - $74,870 | 2 years (Associate's degree) | NBCOT COTA Exam | 640+ hours | $15,000 - $30,000 |
List of LPN Programs in Maine
Bangor, ME
Beal University
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing Diploma Program
Online Learning - Website
- 10-month diploma program
- Online and on-campus options
- Prepares for NCLEX-PN licensure
- Small class sizes
- Flexible schedules
- Courses in Pharmacology
- Lifespan Considerations course
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
Lewiston, ME
Maine College of Health Professions
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One year certificate program
- 100% NCLEX-PN pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Cost under $18,000
- Financial aid eligible
- 3 semesters program length
- Hands-on learning experience
- Accredited by ACEN
Presque Isle, ME
Northern Maine Community College
- Certificate/Diploma - Practical Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 9-month certification program
- Advanced nursing simulation center
- Hands-on clinical training
- Career pathway to RN
- High job market demand